The Fed Cut Rates Again but Deep Divisions Cloud Path Ahead

The Brazil central bank has decided to hold interest rates steady at 15%, providing no indications of potential cuts in the near future. This decision reflects the bank's ongoing strategy to manage inflation and stabilize the economy amidst persistent economic challenges.

The Federal Reserve has cut interest rates, signaling a cautious approach to further easing amid significant internal dissent among its officials. Three members expressed differing views on the decision, highlighting the complexities of the current economic landscape characterized by stalled inflation progress and a cooling job market.

The U.S. government has announced plans to require foreign tourists from visa-waiver countries, including Britain and France, to disclose five years of their social media history. This new regulation aims to enhance security measures and ensure transparency regarding the online activities of visitors.

Surro Connections, a surrogacy firm, assured prospective parents that their funds were secure, yet clients have reported losing tens of thousands of dollars intended for compensating surrogate mothers. The sudden disappearance of these funds has raised significant concerns among those who entrusted the company with their financial resources.

The Federal Reserve has implemented a rare ‘hawkish cut’ in interest rates as Chair Jerome Powell seeks to stabilize a softening job market, amid significant internal dissent among officials. Three members of the Fed expressed differing opinions on the decision, highlighting the divisions within the central bank regarding its monetary policy direction.

Midpriced steakhouses and fine-dining establishments, including Halls Chophouse in Charleston, S.C., are grappling with soaring beef prices, which are impacting their operational costs similarly to grocery consumers. Restaurants are in a 'Code Red' mode as they seek solutions to manage these rising expenses without deterring customers.

Australia has implemented a groundbreaking law prohibiting social media access for individuals under the age of 16, a move that has garnered significant global media attention and sparked discussions about its potential effectiveness and implications. The ban, effective December 10, 2025, aims to protect minors from the adverse effects of social media, including cyberbullying and exposure to harmful content.

Wall Street is currently experiencing a complex dynamic as fears of an artificial intelligence (A.I.) bubble resurface, reminiscent of the dot-com boom. Despite some A.I. companies reaching high valuations, investors are hesitant to withdraw from the market, concerned about missing future gains.